RCD 'trips out' when Sauna is switched on?

Sometimes (usually with non-Sawo Stoves!) the RCD (safety tripswitch on the household fuseboard or consumer unit*) 'trips out' when sauna is switched on, or very soon afterwards.

(* RCD switch has a 'Test' button next to it)

This 'problem' most often occurs when the sauna has not been heated for some time.
(Also, usually with other brands, when the stove or elements are newly installed)

It will not usually occur/recur if the sauna has been or is regularly heated.

It is very often (usually!) caused by invisible dampness inside the heating elements.


SAFETY FIRST:

If you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable with handling your electrical installation, please seek the advice of a qualified electrician.
Please suggest that they call for technical help on: 01725 510212 (M-F, 10am-4pm)


SELF-HELP:

If dampness (e.g. as a result of a long period of non-use) is considered to be the most likely cause of the problem, first check that all appears to be otherwise normal, then try:

Re-setting the RCD (maybe several times…) until enough heat is built up to drive off the moisture inside the elements that is probably causing the problem.

(Note: There is little point in trying to ‘dry’ the stove by other means, e.g. hairdryers!)


NEXT:

If re-setting the RCD (note it may take many attempts...) does not work, it will be necessary to follow a slightly more involved procedure which should only be carried out by electrically qualified persons.

Please ask the electrician to contact our technical help line on 01725 510212 (M-F, 10am-4pm) for further advice.
(Sorry; for legal & safety reasons we cannot give this advice to any non-professional)



This problem will usually be completly avoided if the sauna is regularly heated, so - enjoy it often!

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